Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick cited the team’s talent, fit and depth when explaining his confidence in their championship potential ahead of the 2026-27 season. The Los Angeles Times reported his comments before the Lakers’ regular-season opener against the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday at Crypto.com Arena.
Redick said his confidence in the Lakers was consistent with his approach to every season, pointing to the team’s ability to improve over time and adapt to different playoff matchups.
“Because of our talent, because of our fit, because of our depth, I really like our team,” Redick said, while noting that he prefers not to describe teams simply as contenders.
Redick also referenced the previous season, when he maintained that the Lakers would resolve their problems during January and February before injuries affected their postseason prospects. He stressed that developing into a team capable of making a deep playoff run requires time and does not guarantee an NBA Finals appearance.
The Lakers finished the 2025-26 regular season 53-29, with Luka Doncic averaging 33.5 points and 8.3 assists in 64 games. Austin Reaves added 23.3 points and 5.5 assists in 51 appearances, while LeBron James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds in 60 games.
However, Los Angeles entered the new season following a major roster transition. James left in free agency for the Philadelphia 76ers, ending his eight-year career with the Lakers, while the front office reshaped the roster around Doncic and Reaves.
Walker Kessler arrived from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade on July 8, signing a four-year, $129.5 million contract to strengthen the frontcourt.
The Lakers finished their 2026 preseason with a 2-3 record.
